women's imaging center

Imaging is an important part of diagnosis and screening. Bon Secours Virginia provide state-of-the-art imaging technology for women in comfortable, patient-friendly environments. Whether you need screening, like a mammogram, or a diagnosis, our radiologists and technicians understand the unique needs of women's health. The American Board of Radiology certifies our radiologists. Many of them also have subspecialty training to provide care specific to your needs. Our radiologists work closely with you and your physicians, providing results quickly so you can rest easy.

We have women’s imaging services at all our hospitals and imaging centers. We have eight locations with convenient hours, including early morning and late night periods that fit your busy schedule.

Our woman's - only imaging center at St. Mary's Hospital offers a breast cancer screening and diagnosis program in a comfortable environment using the latest technology. Nearly 200,000 women will be diagnosed with cancer this year, and early detection is the key to survival. American Cancer Society guidelines suggest that women start yearly mammograms by age 40. Clinical breast exams should be done every 3 years for women in their 20s and 30s. Women 40 and older should get them annually. To schedule a screening, call 804-627-5660.

Osteoporosis is the gradual loss of bone calcium. This makes bones brittle and easier to break. This condition is common as women age, and the risk of developing it rises after menopause. To help detect osteoporosis and determine bone strength, our imaging services offer Bone Densitometry -- also known as Bone Density Testing. This test measures calcium content and density in bones. Bone density testing is recommended for women 65 and above. Younger women also should be tested, if they are past menopause and have risk factors for developing osteoporosis, such having a mother who had it.

Our imaging services also offer Calcium Scoring CT scans or heart scans. This non-invasive test helps determine your risk of developing heart disease that might lead to a heart attack. Using pictures of your heart taken with a computed tomography (CT) scanner, this test evaluates plaque buildup in your coronary arteries. Understanding your risk for heart disease is the first step to preventing it.

Some of our imaging services specifically for women include:

Mammography – both screening and diagnostic

MRI Breast

Bone Densitometry

Fertility

Gynecological ultrasounds

CT Scans

Besides these services, our imaging centers also handle cyst aspiration – removing fluid from a non-cancerous cyst in your breast -- and stereotactic biopsy. With the latter, a radiologist uses a special mammography machine to remove cells from a specific area in your breast for evaluation.

We also provide interventional radiology procedures. These are minimally invasive, meaning they do not require surgery. These procedures usually reduce discomfort and speed recovery. Our other procedures include kyphoplasty, vertebroplasty, and uterine artery embolization.